]]>Gavin D'Souza Gavin D'Souza Mini Countryman vs Volvo XC40 comparison video2461402461401Sun, 10 Mar 2019 10:34:00 +1000411878Gavin D'Souza Autocar India staff photograherMon, 1 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +1000The Mini Countryman takes a different approach to the compact luxury SUV formula, but then so does the Volvo XC40. Which one does it better? We drive them both to find out. The Mini Countryman takes a different approach to the compact luxury SUV formula, but then so does the Volvo XC40. Which one does it better? We drive them both to find out. Sun, 10 Mar 2019 10:34:00 +1000https://www.autocarindia.com/car-reviews/mini-countryman-vs-volvo-xc40-comparison-video-411878#utm_source=feed&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=Autocar+India+Entry+level+luxury+SUVs+feed411878Volvo to impose 180kph top speed limit by 2020

Volvo will limit the top speed of all of its cars and SUVs to 180kph from 2020. The move is motivated by the company's intention that no one should be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo by that date, the Swedish car maker said.

In a statement, Volvo said that “technology alone will not get it all the way to zero”, adding that the firm “is now broadening its scope to include a focus on driver behaviour”.

Volvo referenced the limitations of technology to prevent accidents and injuries above certain speeds, citing data from the US National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration showing that 25% of road fatalities in the US in 2017 were a result of speeding.

“Volvo is a leader in safety. We always have been and we always will be,” said Volvo boss Håkan Samuelsson. "Because of our research, we know where the problem areas are when it comes to ending serious injuries and fatalities in our cars. And while a speed limitation is not a cure-all, it’s worth doing if we can even save one life.”

The top speeds of Volvo's current models range from 190kph to 250kph.

Volvo is also investigating geo-fencing technology to see if it could further limit the speeds of its cars in sensitive areas, such as near schools.

“We want to start a conversation about whether car makers have the right or maybe even an obligation to install technology in cars that changes their driver’s behaviour, to tackle things like speeding, intoxication or distraction,” said Samuelsson. “We don’t have a firm answer to this question but believe we should take leadership in the discussion and be a pioneer.”

Volvo safety expert Jan Ivarsson said: “As humans, we all understand the dangers with snakes, spiders and heights. With speeds, not so much. People often drive too fast in a given traffic situation and have poor speed adaption in relation to that traffic situation and their own capabilities as a driver. We need to support better behaviour and help people realise and understand that speeding is dangerous.”

The firm has also highlighted two other external factors that contribute to fatalities: intoxication and distraction. It is looking at ways to reduce both and is expected to make further safety-related announcements at an event on the subject it is holding later this month.

In India, Volvo is coming off a solid sales performance in 2018, with a record 2,638 units sold last year. The company is also keen on assembling the yet-to-be-revealed XC40 EV at its facility, in Bengaluru.

What do you think of Volvo’s decision to limit all its cars to 180kph from 2020? Let us know in the comments.

]]>Staff Writer Staff Writer Volvo to impose 180kph top speed limit by 20202461402461401Mon, 4 Mar 2019 17:38:00 +1000411772Staff Writer Autocar India staff photograherMon, 1 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +1000Swedish carmaker says the speed limit will be a key part of its ambition to ensure nobody is killed or injured in a new Volvo from 2020 onwards.Swedish carmaker says the speed limit will be a key part of its ambition to ensure nobody is killed or injured in a new Volvo from 2020 onwards.Mon, 4 Mar 2019 17:38:00 +1000https://www.autocarindia.com/car-news/volvo-to-impose-180kph-top-speed-limit-by-2020-411772#utm_source=feed&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=Autocar+India+Entry+level+luxury+SUVs+feed411772Best small luxury diesel SUVs

5) Mercedes-Benz GLA 7/10

While the GLA sports a well-finished cabin and eye-catching exterior styling, the package is let down by a noisy, older motor and its comparative lack of practicality, especially in terms of rear seat space. Ride quality isn’t the best either.

Mercedes-Benz GLA prices

Variant

Price

GLA 200d Style

Rs 32.33 lakh

GLA 200d Sport

Rs 35.64 lakh

GLA 220d 4MATIC

Rs 38.64 lakh

4) Audi Q3 7/10

Despite being a little long in the tooth now, the Q3 is still an attractive car. The cabin though a bit plain is well put together, and quality is still good by class standards. The Q3 has all the essential creature comforts ticked but misses out on some of the kit available on newer rivals. While the 150hp diesel is just adequate, the larger 184hp motor is the one to go for as it is refined and quick engine. A cushy ride also adds to the feeling of being in something expensive.

Audi Q3 prices

Variant

Price

Q3 30 TDI Premium

Rs 36.53 lakh

Q3 35 TDI Premium Plus quattro

Rs 39.68 lakh

Q3 35 TDI Technology quattro

Rs 42.88 lakh

3) Mini Countryman 7/10

The Countryman has a few key strengths – excellent build quality, a long list of equipment and the retro-cool factor associated with the Mini badge. It’s a fun-to-drive car but it misses out on AWD, which contributes to the feel that the Countryman just isn’t SUV enough. The ride quality on the Mini is a bit too firm for our roads, giving potential customers another reason to opt for one of its rivals.

Mini Countryman prices

Variant

Price

Countryman Cooper SD

Rs 37.40 lakh

2) BMW X1 8/10

True to the BMW badge, the X1 is an enthusiast's SUV in this class. It strikes a great balance between ride and handling and good performance from the strong diesel engine. The new X1 looks smart and boasts a spacious and plush cabin. AWD is available in top-spec version but it's best to stick to light off-roading due to the SUV's low ground clearance.

BMW X1 prices

Variant

Price

X1 sDrive20d Expedition

Rs 35.20 lakh

X1 sDrive20d xLine

Rs 39.30 lakh

X1 sDrive20d M Sport

Rs 42.40 lakh

X1 xDrive20d M Sport

Rs 45.40 lakh

1) Volvo XC40 9/10

The baby Volvo gets the basics right: it's effortless to drive thanks to a well-sorted ride/handling setup and 190hp, 2.0-litre diesel motor, and it scores high on space and practicality too. The Volvo XC40 is also equipped with the tech and creature comforts that cars even a class above miss out. It’s relatively pricier than its competition but you do get a lot for your money.

]]>Staff Writer Staff Writer Best small luxury diesel SUVs2461402461401Tue, 12 Feb 2019 08:00:00 +1000411473Staff Writer Autocar India staff photograherMon, 1 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +1000Looking to buy an entry-level premium SUV? We tell you which models to spend your money on.Looking to buy an entry-level premium SUV? We tell you which models to spend your money on.Tue, 12 Feb 2019 08:00:00 +1000https://www.autocarindia.com/car-news/best-small-luxury-diesel-suvs-411473#utm_source=feed&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=Autocar+India+Entry+level+luxury+SUVs+feed411473Looking to buy a premium diesel SUV
I am planning to buy a small diesel SUV and have shortlisted the Audi Q3, VW Tiguan and the Jeep Compass Trailhawk (I am willing to wait for its launch). I will keep the car for at least five years. My monthly running is around 2,400km and I would like the SUV to have car-like handling. Though I do not go for off-road drives, I need an SUV with good ground clearance to tackle bad roads. I want to spend as less as I can. Audi has offered a good deal on the Q3; should I go for it? Will the mentioned SUVs give a mileage of 16kpl?Vivekanand Naik, Pune

AAA The Audi Q3 is no doubt the most premium of the lot and hence will give you a sense of luxury and refinement the others won’t. It’s got a decent ride and, being an SUV, the ground clearance is good too. The Compass Trailhawk is a more serious off-roader with serious 4x4 hardware, but if you won’t be venturing off-road then it’s a bit of an overkill. The Tiguan is also an excellent car but a bit bland in character compared to the Q3 and it doesn’t have the snob value either. So, if you get a good deal on the Q3 that would be our pick too.

This tech is de rigueur these days, with even smaller hatchbacks offering them, helping you stay connected to your smartphone universe while on the move. These projection standards allow the essentials of your smartphone’s interface to extend to the car infotainment screen, with inputs through physical buttons, the touchscreen or voice commands. Also, they are intuitive enough to use on the go and have been designed to keep distractions to a minimum.

2. Cooled seats

Once reserved for top-of-the-line luxury cars, this feature has become mainstream. The seats come with built-in fans that blow cooled air through several tiny pores in the seats. They help you cool down faster, or just keep that sweat stain off the back of your shirt. With our blistering summers that have temperatures soaring, this is a feature you'll really want.

3. LED headlamps

LED headlamps are simple and highly efficient. They light up instantly, last far longer than other light sources, and can emit a bright light that is closer to the intensity of daylight. LEDs are even offered on smaller hatchbacks and sedans these days.

4. Daytime running lamps (DRLs)

First introduced in Sweden in the 1970s, DRLs help make your vehicles more visible to other road users, thus reducing the possibility of accidents. Mostly made up of LEDs, these lamps consume little energy and have a long lifespan. DRLs also double as a styling signature, like BMW’s Corona Rings or Volvo’s Thor’s Hammer.

5. Cooled glovebox

Cooled air is directed into the glovebox via a separate air vent that can be opened and closed manually. It is another great feature for our summers as you can keep your beverages cool, store chocolates or other vitals, like medication, that are temperature dependent.

6. Keyless entry and go

At this price, you surely wouldn't want to fumble around with your keys each time you want to open or start your car. The feature will help you skip this step. All the driver has to do is keep the key on him. A button/touch sensor on the door handle will unlock/lock the vehicle. Once inside, press the Start/Stop button to fire up the engine. It’s that simple.

7. Panoramic sunroof

This is one feature that is high up on the shopping list of most car buyers. Usually associated with premium cars, panoramic sunroofs flood the cabin with natural light and enhance the
feeling of space.

8. Paddleshifters

Most automatic transmission cars these days come with a manual gear tipping function, but having a pair of paddleshifters will surely bring a smile to your face, especially while driving in an enthusiastic manner. If you want a more urgent response from your car, simply drop a gear using the paddles, without taking your hands off the steering wheel. Eyes on the road, hands on the wheel.

9. Multi-zone climate control

Can’t decide on what the ideal temperature in your car should be? Enter multi-zone climate control. Available in dual-, triple- and even four- zone options, these systems can maintain individual temperatures in different sections of the car. For example, in a dual-zone climate control system, the driver and the front passenger can set different temperatures for themselves based on their preferences.

10. Tilt and telescopic steering

Steering wheel adjustability is crucial to attain the best driving position and keep you comfortable even after hours behind the wheel. Most cars in India usually offer tilt or height adjustability as a standard, but at this price point, telescopic or reach adjust is also expected. An added bonus would be if the adjustment mechanism was an electric-powered one.

11. Auto parking

This one seems straight out of the magician’s hat. Still relatively uncommon, this feature is designed to make parking a breeze. When engaged, the auto parking system scans the surrounding, helps you identify a suitable parking space, let’s you shift into reverse gear and then will steer your vehicle into the space, while you control the accelerator and brakes. And yes, some systems can unpark as well.

12. Reversing camera with front and rear sensors

This camera allows drivers to clearly see what is behind them and in their blind spot without having to turn around and look, while the sensors beep based on the vehicle's proximity to an object. This will not only help reduce nicks and dents on your prized possession but also let the driver become aware of their surroundings while reversing.

13. Auto-dimming inside mirror

Also known as an electrochromatic mirror, it dims out glare from the headlights of vehicles that trail behind by darkening the mirror automatically. This is unlike many mainstream cars which rely on a day and night mirror that comes with a manual switch to do the job.

14. Electrically adjustable driver's seat

No more pulling of levers or exerting body force on different parts of the seat to get the right driving position. With an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, all this can be done with few dabs of some switches and whirring of electric motors. Seat adjustment can range from 12-way to 48-way, depending on the car model. Certain cars also offer a memory function which allows you to preset your favourite driving position.

15. Reclining back seat

If you are usually chauffeured around or if backseat comfort is important for someone in your family (an elderly parent, maybe), then this feature can be a deal-clincher. Most popular examples let you tilt the seatback angle making the rear seat comfortable enough to take a nap.

]]>Mark Narakaden Mark Narakaden 15 must-have features in cars above Rs 30 lakh2461402461401Mon, 9 Jul 2018 09:19:00 +1000408960Mark Narakaden Autocar India staff photograherMon, 1 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +1000With a Rs 30 lakh car, you should expect a long equipment list. But what exactly should you expect? Here are 15 important ones we think you need on your checklist.With a Rs 30 lakh car, you should expect a long equipment list. But what exactly should you expect? Here are 15 important ones we think you need on your checklist.Mon, 9 Jul 2018 09:19:00 +1000https://www.autocarindia.com/auto-features/15-must-have-features-in-cars-above-rs-30-lakh-408960#utm_source=feed&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=Autocar+India+Entry+level+luxury+SUVs+feed4089602017 Range Rover Velar to be priced from Rs 75 lakh

A leak has revealed that prices for the Range Rover Velar start at Rs 75 lakh, with the top-of-line diesel coming in at around Rs 1.20 crore. The SUV is expected to launch around November this year.

The Velar about to launch in India will be powered by a 250hp 2.0-litre Ingenium petrol, a 2.0-litre Ingenium diesel in 180hp or 240hp states of tune. A standard ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic is paired with each engine and delivers power to all-four-wheels.

Typical of Land Rover, the Velar will sport an array of driving aids – like Hill Descent Control (HDC) that comes as standard, to the optional Terrain Response 2 – to enhance the off-road and on-road driving experience. A key feature of the cabin is a new Touch Pro Duo infotainment system with two 10-inch touchscreens, described as ‘secret-until-lit’ surfaces. Between them, these configurable displays reduce the switchgear to an absolute minimum, while the lower part of the centre console, ahead of the gear and Terrain Response selectors, is turned into a screen itself.

At these prices, it seems like the Range Rover Velar undercut its main competition, the Porsche Macan. The SUV slots between the Evoque and Range Rover Sport in Land Rover’s India line-up.

Volvo is looking to enter the small, premium SUV segment with its upcoming XC40. This will be the smallest model in the Swedish manufacturer’s SUV range. The first car to be based on the new Compact Modular Architecture platform, the SUV is meant to target a more youthful audience compared to the larger XC60 and XC90, hence, will offer a longer list of customisable options.

A teaser image of the XC40’s rear end had leaked from Volvo’s German arm but was soon removed from its website. The tail-lamp and rear bumper design look similar to that of the V40.

Expected to be revealed for international markets about the time of the Frankfurt motor show, the XC40 is expected to be powered by a new, three-pot, 1.5-litre petrol unit derived from Volvo’s four-cylinder 2.0-litre engine, in addition to a slew of petrol and diesel engine options. An 180hp hybrid model is also expected with a seven-speed automatic sending power to the front wheels, and an all-electric range of 48km.

Volvo has confirmed three variants for the XC40 – Momentum, R-Design and Inscription. Despite being the entry-level trim, Momentum is described as the most fashion-conscious. Based on Volvo’s other models, R-Design will be sportier and Inscription more luxurious.

When launched, Volvo’s small, premium SUV will rival the likes of the Jaguar E-Pace, Mercedes-Benz GLA, BMW X1 and the Audi Q3. No details have been revealed regarding an India-spec model as yet.

The Mercedes GLA has been on sale in India since 2014 and while it received criticism for looking more hatch than SUV, the little crossover managed to sustain itself over time. Launched with two-wheel drive only, Mercedes later added more versions like the performance-oriented GLA 45 AMG with all-wheel drive and then in 2016 offered the all-wheel-drive system on the GLA 220d with an off-road mode as well. Now about three years on since the first launch, Mercedes has given the car a facelift.

What’s it like on the outside?

As far as facelifts go, the GLA update can best be described as mild. Mercedes has not altered any sheet metal and perhaps the biggest change to the exterior could be the addition of LED headlamps. The front also gets a new grille with perforated twin-blade design and the lower edge sees a new bumper cladding. On the sides, the car wears new five-spoke alloys and the rear gets redesigned crystal-effect LED tail lamps. That’s it as far as the exterior changes go. The rest is familiar territory, meaning you still get the small hatch styling similar to the A-class on which it is based. On the whole, the GLA does not have the stance of a traditional SUV but it does look appealing with its swoopy lines; it turned a few heads on our drive.

What’s it like on the inside?

Just like the exterior, the changes to the inside are minimal. There are now two new trim options – sail-patterned trim on the Sports edition and black matrix trim on the Style edition. The instrument panel is new with an 11.6 cm colour multifunction display and has a concentric circle meter design with neat red needles. The new GLA also has an ambient lighting system with 12 selectable colours. The rest remain from the earlier car and the GLA is fairly well equipped with bits like a large panoramic sunroof, attention assist, powered tailgate, powered front seats with memory and an 8-inch infotainment screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Curiously, however, it makes do with a manual AC system only. Another odd bit is a reverse camera system but with no audio warnings.

Seating is comfortable and what’s nice is the small extendable underthigh support on both front seats. Space, on the whole, isn’t very large by the standards of its competitors, headroom and rear legroom is just sufficient for my five-foot-eight frame and what adds to the hemmed-in feeling is the narrow all-round glass house. In fact, you will notice the slightly restricted view out at the front thanks to the short height of the windshield. Beige interiors and a large sunroof on our car did alleviate this to an extent.

What’s it like to drive?

Mercedes has a newer 2-litre diesel that’s under the hood of the new E-class but this will feature only on the next-generation GLA platform. Thus, powertrain choices, for now, include a 1,991cc petrol engine and a 2,143cc diesel in two states of tune. We are driving the 220d with the higher powered output that puts out 170hp and 350Nm of torque compared to the 200d’s 136hp and 300Nm of torque. The 2.1-litre diesel has been the mainstay of the Mercedes fleet powering everything from A- to E-class and on the GLA it does a decent job. Acceleration is brisk and power comes in from low revs. There is a small spike in power around the 1700rpm mark post which power delivery is linear all the way to the redline. The downside is the sound level that is higher than you would expect on a Rs 30 lakh car. The engine is quite audible at low revs and gets quite loud as the speed builds.

One big improvement the GLA got in 2016 was a change in the driving modes which brought in an off-road and individual (customisable) mode. These remain on the current car and alter the powertrain and steering only, with no further changes to the suspension or other dynamic components of the car. In our earlier testing, we found the GLA to be no SUV but it can easily indulge in some light off-roading with the four-wheel drive and sufficient clearance. There is also a hill descent mode to bring the GLA down slopes in a controlled manner.

The steering is nice with a decent amount of feel but it isn’t consistent all through the turn. On our earlier testing, we weren’t impressed with the ride, finding it quite firm and crashy. On the facelifted car, there seems to be a small improvement. Mercedes says there hasn’t been any suspension change and this ride difference could be down to a different make of tyres.

Should I buy one?

Mercedes should have done a bit more with the facelift. The GLA isn’t the largest or best-driving SUV and needs a change soon. However, it does deliver a stylish car that can manage some light off-roading and is well equipped too. Besides, it will appeal to those looking to stand apart from the typical SUV brigade. The GLA is priced from Rs 30.65 lakh to Rs 36.75 lakh for the 220d 4matic that we are driving and interestingly that means, thanks to GST, you now pay around Rs 3 lakh less for a facelifted car.

Mercedes-Benz has just launched the updated GLA SUV range in India. Prices start at Rs 30.65 lakh for the base 200d Style variant, going up to Rs 36.75 lakh for the fully loaded 220d 4matic variant (ex-showroom). The updated GLA was unveiled internationally back in January at the Detroit motor show.

The refreshed GLA features new-design front bumpers, grille and alloy wheels. It also gets new LED lights with daytime running lights. On the inside, updates include a new version of the infotainment system which gets an 8.0-inch screen, and minor tweaks to the dashboard, centre console and instrument cluster. A customisation package is also offered on select variants.

The 2017 GLA line-up for India continues with the same engine options as the pre-facelift model. These include a 183hp, 2.0-litre turbo petrol and a 2.1-litre diesel. The latter comes in two states of tune, making 136hp in the 200d variants and 170hp in the 220d variants. The updated GLA takes on the likes of the BMW X1 and the Audi Q3.

Lexus is said to be working on bringing its entry-level crossover, the NX, to India.

The NX facelift, which was first revealed at the Shanghai motor show this year, gets a revised suspension tuning along with an adaptive variable suspension system derived from the LC 500 sports coupé. Other changes include styling tweaks to the exterior and an updated infotainment system.

The crossover for international markets is available as the Lexus NX Turbo with a 238hp, 2.0-litre, turbo-petrol motor, or as the Lexus NX 300h that gets a196hp, 2.5-litre, petrol-hybrid powertrain similar to that in the ES 300h.

Like the ES 300h, the NX for India is likely to be locally assembled. It will rival the likes of the similar-sized Mercedes GLA and the Audi Q3 and will be the entry point into the carmaker's SUV line-up.